Boxster S - Rear Strut Failure?
 

I have a Boxster S 2003. Recently, while driving it started to make a weird noise, upon inspection I discovered there was a nasty cut on the left rear tire( see pics ). When I got home, I took the tire off but I couldn't find anywhere that would be rubbing against the tire to make that nasty cut, the closes thing was strut/shot. Could this be a Strut Failure or is it something else?
How much does it cost to replace the struts dealer vs indie shop?
Any info greatly appreciated.



(This might be a repeat post. I posted earlier but couldn't find it in the list)

That's just the tread seperating from the tire carcass. Looks like it was caused by alignment being out. you just need tires & alignment. Check struts for leaking fluid or replace if over 80,K miles.

+1 alignment out

Phew.. I thought it was something more serious... Thanks guys!!...

Oh.. it *could* be more serious, like a bent upright. Is the car lowered? I see this when people think 5mm's of toe in is "OK" after they have lowered a car and realized they cannot adjust the toe far enough with the stock rear toe link.

Also, you were pretty brave (or foolish) to continue driving it home after seeing that (unless you were a couple of blocks away and on a slow road). I would have immediately put the spare on.
As to your shop questions, I always use indy shops with good Porsche reputation. dealers are never a good deal if you are out of warranty. Likewise for parts - buy from the known vendors. Dealer mark ups tend to be very high.